Help shape the future of the Church across Sussex.
We are seeking an experienced strategic leader to oversee an ambitious portfolio of programmes designed to help churches and communities flourish and grow.
Position: Head of Strategic Programmes
Location: Hove/Hybrid
Salary: £61,149 per annum
Contract: Fixed term until 31 December 2030, with the possibility of extension
Closing Date: 11 October 2026
Interview Date: Hove on 30 October 2026
About the Role
Working closely with the Diocesan Secretary, Bishops, Archdeacons and other senior leaders, you will lead the delivery and continued development of the Diocesan Growth Strategy.
You will provide strategic oversight of major programmes and projects with a combined budget exceeding £10 million. This includes leading a multidisciplinary team, strengthening programme governance and ensuring investment delivers measurable mission impact.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading the delivery and development of a portfolio of strategic programmes and projects
Translating diocesan priorities into achievable plans and measurable outcomes
Overseeing programme governance, performance reporting, risk management and evaluation
Managing programme budgets, resources and delivery
Leading, supporting and developing the Strategic Programmes team
Building effective relationships with parishes, clergy, diocesan boards, senior leaders and national church partners
Providing clear analysis, reports and recommendations to support strategic decision-making
About You
You will be a wise, experienced and collaborative leader who can work strategically within a complex, faith-based organisation.
You will have:
Significant experience of leading large and complex programmes
Experience of working with a diverse range of stakeholders
Strong engagement and influencing skills at all levels
Experience of managing budgets, resources and programme performance
Excellent analytical, communication and report-writing skills
The ability to turn strategic priorities into practical plans
The confidence and judgement to work effectively with senior leaders
The enthusiasm and self-motivation to lead and inspire others
A Genuine Occupational Requirement applies under paragraph 1 of Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010, and the successful candidate must be a practising Christian.
Full details can be found in the job description and person specification when you apply.
About the Organisation
The vision of the Diocese is to help people to know, love and follow Jesus. Based in Hove and serving the people of Sussex across more than 360 parishes and 154 church schools and the wider community, this is a great role for someone who supports the ethos, aims and objectives of the Diocese and the Church of England.
As an employer, and as a team, the mutual values at work are to be Respectful, Professional, Flexible and Supportive.
What is on offer:
28 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays and two privilege days per year
Membership of the Church Worker’s Pension Scheme with a 15.1% employer contribution and an employee contribution between 0 and 6%
Employee Assistance Programme with access to GP appointments, counselling and financial and legal support
Flexible working, free parking, a ride to work scheme and development opportunities
Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders are expected to share this commitment and comply with the relevant safeguarding policy. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and completion of the Church of England Confidential Declaration Form.
Other roles you may have experience of could include Head of Programmes, Director of Programmes, Strategic Programmes Manager, Programme Director, Head of Strategy, Portfolio Director, Transformation Director or Head of Strategic Development.
Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People. #INDNFP
Salary description
£61149.00 - £61149.00 per year